Narcotics charges: possession, trafficking & BtM strategy

Narcotics criminal law (BtMG) is one of the toughest areas of law. Even the possession of small quantities can lead to house searches and – often worse than the penalty itself – the loss of your driving license.

Whether Cannabis, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Ecstasy, or Heroin: The police in Mannheim, Heidelberg, and the Palatinate enforce strictly. As a narcotics defense lawyer in Mannheim, we know drug charges and narcotics law inside out. Allegations range from acquisition and possession to "trafficking" or the importation of narcotics.

Personal Use vs. Trafficking

The decisive factor for the proceedings: Are you accused merely of consumption/possession or of trafficking? Indications of trafficking often include cash in scene-typical denominations, precision scales, or packaging material (baggies). We analyze the file to refute the allegation of trafficking at an early stage.

The "Non-Small Quantity"

This often determines whether a suspended sentence (probation) is still possible. The thresholds depend on the active ingredient content (e.g., THC, cocaine hydrochloride) and not the gross weight. I insist on precise active ingredient reports to achieve the best possible result for you.

EncroChat & SkyECC & Anom

In recent years, many proceedings have been based on decrypted chat data (EncroChat, SkyECC, Anom). The admissibility of this data as evidence is legally highly controversial, although currently largely affirmed by the courts.

Driving License and Drug Allegations

A narcotics allegation – even a first-time cannabis possession charge – almost automatically triggers a separate driving license review by the licensing authority. The authority may demand a medical-psychological assessment (MPU) or a medical opinion on fitness to drive. Those found to be regular users risk permanent loss of their driving license, regardless of the outcome of the criminal proceedings. We coordinate both procedures in parallel and advise you on which statements in the criminal case carry no negative consequences for the license proceedings.

Cannabis Legalization 2024: What Has Changed?

Since April 1, 2024, the private possession of up to 25g of cannabis in public and the personal cultivation of up to three plants is generally permitted for adults in Germany. However, this does not mean unrestricted legal conduct: possession remains prohibited near schools and playgrounds. Trafficking outside of licensed cannabis social clubs remains criminal. Many ongoing proceedings can be discontinued or made subject to appeal under the new legal framework.

Sentencing Range

Simple possession or acquisition of narcotics (§ 29 BtMG) can be punished with a fine or imprisonment of up to five years. For trafficking, importation, or gang-related offenses (§ 30 BtMG), prison terms of one to fifteen years are possible. The potential confiscation of vehicles or real estate used as instruments of the crime is also a serious risk. We explore all options and develop a clear strategy – from discontinuation against a fine to a suspended sentence.

Drug charges filed against you? We review your case file and the active ingredient content in a free initial telephone consultation. Matamoros Criminal Defense operates in Mannheim, Heidelberg and nationwide in all narcotics proceedings.

Last updated: February 2026